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Meat Eaters
From cartoonist Meredith McClaren (co-creator of the acclaimed series Black Cloak) comes a punishing and poignant original graphic novel about the monsters that lurk both in the darkness beyond—and within—us all . . .
Let it be said that dying is hard. Nineteen-year-old Ashley Moore found this out firsthand.
All Ashley wanted was to keep her head down until she could escape the small town where she felt she was stagnating. But after waking up one night covered in blood—and irrevocably dead—Ashley finds her foolproof plan for getting out has gone up in smoke, and that something within her has changed.
Without a heartbeat and with a disturbing craving for fresh meat, Ashley finds herself in a world that exists just beneath our a world of ghouls and monsters and things that go bump in the night. Drawn into the realm of the unusual, getting advice from ancient vampires, dodging angry pack leaders, and becoming the reluctant big sister to some wayward werewolves, Ashley finds it increasingly difficult to put away the parts of her past—and herself—that she wants to ignore. The truth, it turns out, can’t stay buried forever.
In this visceral story about the effects of trauma and anxiety, dying is indeed hard. But getting on with it? That can be worse.
Let it be said that dying is hard. Nineteen-year-old Ashley Moore found this out firsthand.
All Ashley wanted was to keep her head down until she could escape the small town where she felt she was stagnating. But after waking up one night covered in blood—and irrevocably dead—Ashley finds her foolproof plan for getting out has gone up in smoke, and that something within her has changed.
Without a heartbeat and with a disturbing craving for fresh meat, Ashley finds herself in a world that exists just beneath our a world of ghouls and monsters and things that go bump in the night. Drawn into the realm of the unusual, getting advice from ancient vampires, dodging angry pack leaders, and becoming the reluctant big sister to some wayward werewolves, Ashley finds it increasingly difficult to put away the parts of her past—and herself—that she wants to ignore. The truth, it turns out, can’t stay buried forever.
In this visceral story about the effects of trauma and anxiety, dying is indeed hard. But getting on with it? That can be worse.
248 pages, Paperback
Published July 8, 2025
6 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Meredith McClaren
61 books98 followersMeredith McClaren is an illustrator and cartoonist who has no business doing either.
She sometimes entertains the idea of drawing the fourth book in Jen Van Meter’s Hopeless Savages series. And her journal comic Scraps indulges her closeted narcissism.
Supposedly she has a postal code in Arizona, but really, she could be anywhere.
Oh.
And don’t touch her stuff.
Seriously.
She sometimes entertains the idea of drawing the fourth book in Jen Van Meter’s Hopeless Savages series. And her journal comic Scraps indulges her closeted narcissism.
Supposedly she has a postal code in Arizona, but really, she could be anywhere.
Oh.
And don’t touch her stuff.
Seriously.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
May 28, 2025
Acknowledgements and grateful thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press publishing for the opportunity to read and review this e-ARC: 'Meat Eaters by Meredith McClaren'. All opinions are my own and are not a reflection of the publishers and/or author, of which I have no association with. All my reviews are fair and without spoilers.
Meat Eaters by Meredithis a graphic novel that is made for gore obsessed people, like myself. Filled with werewolves, and blood and guts. This was honestly made for me.
THERE ARE NO SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW.
Five out of five stars (5/5 stars).
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Blood and gore, death, and animal death.
“From cartoonist Meredith McClaren (co-creator of the acclaimed series Black Cloak) comes a punishing and poignant original graphic novel about the monsters that lurk both in the darkness beyond—and within—us all . . .
Let it be said that dying is hard. Nineteen-year-old Ashley Moore found this out firsthand.” — the Goodreads page for 'Meat Eaters'.
// Pre-read: I'm so looking forward to this, it looks super interesting and full of action, drama and horror.//
"All Ashley wanted was to keep her head down until she could escape the small town where she felt she was stagnating. But after waking up one night covered in blood—and irrevocably dead—Ashley finds her foolproof plan for getting out has gone up in smoke, and that something within her has changed." — the Goodreads page for 'Meat Eaters'.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel, it bought me much happiness to be reading a book with so many gory illustrations. Meredith is very talented and I adore the style of her art immensely. Being an artist myself, I can appreciate original art, and do.
It is a story of a 19-year-old Ashley who wakes up very different than when she was awake last, not only has her appetite changed, and she has no heart beat. Join her and her newly found friends in a savage journey that grabs others' attention.
The plot is exciting and the illustrations really do make this story what it is, and the werewolves are portrayed in a new, refreshing way — in a way that really compliments the entire story from start to finish.
There were no errors, no parts that I didn't understand and because of all oft his, the graphic novel 'Meat Eaters' has thoroughly earned it's five stars.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Meredith McClaren is an American author and illustrator who is well known for her distinct style with her art and her storytelling. Born in 1987 it makes her 38-years-old and she started drawing in her early years because she was passionate.
'Meat Eaters' is her forth published novel and I reckon it's the best one I've read so far, I want to read all of her work as soon as I can. I'm just disappointed that this wasn't longer.. I was pretty sad when it ended.
I think I am going to have to buy it when it comes out properly to add to my graphic gore folder I'm obsessed and I highly recommend this to anyone that love gore in their graphic novels. You won't regret buying this, at all.
Meat Eaters by Meredithis a graphic novel that is made for gore obsessed people, like myself. Filled with werewolves, and blood and guts. This was honestly made for me.
THERE ARE NO SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW.
Five out of five stars (5/5 stars).
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Blood and gore, death, and animal death.
“From cartoonist Meredith McClaren (co-creator of the acclaimed series Black Cloak) comes a punishing and poignant original graphic novel about the monsters that lurk both in the darkness beyond—and within—us all . . .
Let it be said that dying is hard. Nineteen-year-old Ashley Moore found this out firsthand.” — the Goodreads page for 'Meat Eaters'.
// Pre-read: I'm so looking forward to this, it looks super interesting and full of action, drama and horror.//
"All Ashley wanted was to keep her head down until she could escape the small town where she felt she was stagnating. But after waking up one night covered in blood—and irrevocably dead—Ashley finds her foolproof plan for getting out has gone up in smoke, and that something within her has changed." — the Goodreads page for 'Meat Eaters'.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel, it bought me much happiness to be reading a book with so many gory illustrations. Meredith is very talented and I adore the style of her art immensely. Being an artist myself, I can appreciate original art, and do.
It is a story of a 19-year-old Ashley who wakes up very different than when she was awake last, not only has her appetite changed, and she has no heart beat. Join her and her newly found friends in a savage journey that grabs others' attention.
The plot is exciting and the illustrations really do make this story what it is, and the werewolves are portrayed in a new, refreshing way — in a way that really compliments the entire story from start to finish.
There were no errors, no parts that I didn't understand and because of all oft his, the graphic novel 'Meat Eaters' has thoroughly earned it's five stars.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Meredith McClaren is an American author and illustrator who is well known for her distinct style with her art and her storytelling. Born in 1987 it makes her 38-years-old and she started drawing in her early years because she was passionate.
'Meat Eaters' is her forth published novel and I reckon it's the best one I've read so far, I want to read all of her work as soon as I can. I'm just disappointed that this wasn't longer.. I was pretty sad when it ended.
I think I am going to have to buy it when it comes out properly to add to my graphic gore folder I'm obsessed and I highly recommend this to anyone that love gore in their graphic novels. You won't regret buying this, at all.
August 10, 2025
Funnily enough, I'm not a big fan of vampires and werewolves AND I've had a visceral negative reaction to some of Meredith McClaren's art before, but here it all clicks! It's just a confidently told story, where the art services it pretty much perfectly. And I laughed! Quite a lot! Which is rare for me! Bye!
(Thanks to Oni Press for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley)
(Thanks to Oni Press for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley)
October 13, 2025
Don't let the gross cover fool you, this is an amusing and emotional book -- with a dark side, sure -- that has endearing characters that I didn't want to stop reading about when the last page came.
Feeling trapped in the small town in the middle of nowhere where she grew up, introvert Ashley Moore awakens from one devastating night to find herself thrust into the supernatural and the realization that there's more going on in her little burg than she ever realized. And despite the desire to keep her head down until she can get out, events and new acquaintances rip her out of her comfy cocoon, forcing her to make choices and confront secrets she'd rather avoid.
This reminds me of how I felt watching Buffy, y'know, before the revelations about Joss Whedon put a tarnish on it?
Feeling trapped in the small town in the middle of nowhere where she grew up, introvert Ashley Moore awakens from one devastating night to find herself thrust into the supernatural and the realization that there's more going on in her little burg than she ever realized. And despite the desire to keep her head down until she can get out, events and new acquaintances rip her out of her comfy cocoon, forcing her to make choices and confront secrets she'd rather avoid.
This reminds me of how I felt watching Buffy, y'know, before the revelations about Joss Whedon put a tarnish on it?
May 8, 2025
”You look hot.
Hot like I could be fun? Or hot like fuck off?
You kind of always look like you could kill a man. Maybe lean into it.
Things that go bump in the night are some of my favorite things. Lurking, always watching, and blood thirsty. Makes my heart happy. That’s what the cover of this book did. It made me stop in my tracks as a smile grew on my face. If you know me, that’s rare.
What I hoped for was the story to be as intense and interesting as the cover. Sadly, it wasn’t. While parts were gory and absolutely delicious, some of this was boring. The art style just wasn’t what I was expecting. Compared to the cover, they were very different.
With all of that said, I will definitely read more of this series. I believe this has a lot of potential. Really have high hopes for this.
Hot like I could be fun? Or hot like fuck off?
You kind of always look like you could kill a man. Maybe lean into it.
Things that go bump in the night are some of my favorite things. Lurking, always watching, and blood thirsty. Makes my heart happy. That’s what the cover of this book did. It made me stop in my tracks as a smile grew on my face. If you know me, that’s rare.
What I hoped for was the story to be as intense and interesting as the cover. Sadly, it wasn’t. While parts were gory and absolutely delicious, some of this was boring. The art style just wasn’t what I was expecting. Compared to the cover, they were very different.
With all of that said, I will definitely read more of this series. I believe this has a lot of potential. Really have high hopes for this.
May 17, 2025
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
Holy shit!
I absolutely adored this!
A teenage girl finds herself feeling different with a unholy craving for meat that leads her into a world of creepies, outcast undead, lycanthropes...and nightmare horse-spiders.
Ashley goes from abandoned loner to the head of her own pack of adorable found family and the difficulties of trying to be normal when you're anything but.
This was so fucking charming and wholesome and gross and weird and funny and touching and brilliant.
As a big ole brick of disabled neurodivergent Queer T-slur, reading the creepies in the same way as many of us have read things like the X-Men in the past, this truly hit some subtle and beautiful notes that truly resonated.
I absolutely hoovered this up and need more!
Holy shit!
I absolutely adored this!
A teenage girl finds herself feeling different with a unholy craving for meat that leads her into a world of creepies, outcast undead, lycanthropes...and nightmare horse-spiders.
Ashley goes from abandoned loner to the head of her own pack of adorable found family and the difficulties of trying to be normal when you're anything but.
This was so fucking charming and wholesome and gross and weird and funny and touching and brilliant.
As a big ole brick of disabled neurodivergent Queer T-slur, reading the creepies in the same way as many of us have read things like the X-Men in the past, this truly hit some subtle and beautiful notes that truly resonated.
I absolutely hoovered this up and need more!
July 14, 2025
Meat Eaters follows the story of Ashley, a 19 year old college student who wakes up one day undead and craving meat. She randomly stumbles upon some vampires who suss her out and point her in the direction of a bar where paranormal creatures hang out, and she's info dumped with Undead 101. Then she stumbles upon two werewolves who are in trouble and she helps them. Then the werewolves decide to make her their friend. Then there are murders happening, and maybe a monster in the woods? but that's kind of whatever because Ashley is hungry all the time and listless and unsure about life and somehow creating a found family with her werewolf friends.
Things just happen in this graphic novel.
It doesn't feel like there's any real propelling story line that brings us along. It was, ultimately, pretty boring.
The art is fine. The strongest aspect of it is the color work, which does a lot to really create a dreamlike haze that represents Ashley's state of mind. It unfortunately doesn't really save the story itself.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for the eARC!
Things just happen in this graphic novel.
It doesn't feel like there's any real propelling story line that brings us along. It was, ultimately, pretty boring.
The art is fine. The strongest aspect of it is the color work, which does a lot to really create a dreamlike haze that represents Ashley's state of mind. It unfortunately doesn't really save the story itself.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for the eARC!
April 15, 2025
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
Meat Eaters was an awesome mix of horror and dark humor, found family, and a creepy-cute art style that had me hooked from the first page.
Our undead main character Ashley was very relatable, even if she’s not completely human anymore. Says she’s gonna run for 20 seconds, barely makes it two. Same, Ashley.
Loved how she was both a badass and a scaredy-cat, how she protected Motley and Harrison.
A short read, but packed with lots of emotions and I loved the underlying themes of mental health, of struggling with ptsd and/or depression. There was a perfect moment, where Motley was describing the feeling of missing ‘it’, the thing that everyone seems to have but them. Too long to quote, but one of my favorite moments. Really encapsulated the feeling quite well, and made me feel like this was way more than just a paranormal horror story.
A very special, fun and compelling read.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
…Dear diary, am I a freaking zombie?
Meat Eaters was an awesome mix of horror and dark humor, found family, and a creepy-cute art style that had me hooked from the first page.
Ugh, socializing.
Our undead main character Ashley was very relatable, even if she’s not completely human anymore. Says she’s gonna run for 20 seconds, barely makes it two. Same, Ashley.
Loved how she was both a badass and a scaredy-cat, how she protected Motley and Harrison.
A short read, but packed with lots of emotions and I loved the underlying themes of mental health, of struggling with ptsd and/or depression. There was a perfect moment, where Motley was describing the feeling of missing ‘it’, the thing that everyone seems to have but them. Too long to quote, but one of my favorite moments. Really encapsulated the feeling quite well, and made me feel like this was way more than just a paranormal horror story.
A very special, fun and compelling read.
What else can you do…
Except keep going?
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
May 18, 2025
"What else can you do except keep going?"
Meat Eater is definitely one of the weirdest graphic novels I’ve read, and that’s part of what makes it so interesting. The artwork is super unique - pastel but also unflinching when it leans into the gore. It creates this strange, floaty atmosphere that works really well with the story’s overall tone. At times, it feels like a YA coming-of-age story… until it suddenly doesn’t, diving into something way darker and more disturbing.
I liked the main trio a lot, especially how their dynamic developed into a kind of “found family” by the end. Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the whole thing was a bit rushed. Some emotional beats didn’t quite land for me and while the ending was strong and hit hard, the story as a whole felt incomplete.
That said, if you’re into surreal, genre-bending stories with bold visuals and a touch of existential weirdness, Meat Eater is worth checking out.
A thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
Meat Eater is definitely one of the weirdest graphic novels I’ve read, and that’s part of what makes it so interesting. The artwork is super unique - pastel but also unflinching when it leans into the gore. It creates this strange, floaty atmosphere that works really well with the story’s overall tone. At times, it feels like a YA coming-of-age story… until it suddenly doesn’t, diving into something way darker and more disturbing.
I liked the main trio a lot, especially how their dynamic developed into a kind of “found family” by the end. Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the whole thing was a bit rushed. Some emotional beats didn’t quite land for me and while the ending was strong and hit hard, the story as a whole felt incomplete.
That said, if you’re into surreal, genre-bending stories with bold visuals and a touch of existential weirdness, Meat Eater is worth checking out.
A thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
April 26, 2025
Meat Eater is a weird-ass book, and I mean that in a good way. The art is zany and trippy, characters have these alien/bug-eyed looks, and the backgrounds feel floaty and dream-like. It’s got this surreal, off-kilter vibe from the start. The story itself bounces between a kind of YA coming-of-age tone and then suddenly swerves into something way darker and honestly pretty fucked up. It keeps you guessing, that’s for sure.
The best way I can put it: if you want a story about a girl trying to figure out what the hell to do with her life after realizing she’s a ghoul, give this a shot. It’s got moments of humor (though not all of it landed for me), but that ending reveal? Damn, it hit hard, I really felt for the main character by the end.
It’s definitely different from most of what I’ve read, and that alone makes it worth checking out. If the humor works better for you than it did for me, this could be a total knockout. For me, it’s a very solid 3 out of 5.
The best way I can put it: if you want a story about a girl trying to figure out what the hell to do with her life after realizing she’s a ghoul, give this a shot. It’s got moments of humor (though not all of it landed for me), but that ending reveal? Damn, it hit hard, I really felt for the main character by the end.
It’s definitely different from most of what I’ve read, and that alone makes it worth checking out. If the humor works better for you than it did for me, this could be a total knockout. For me, it’s a very solid 3 out of 5.
May 20, 2025
Thank you Oni Press and NetGalley for e-book ARC.
This was super cute!! Absolutely loved the gore and the reluctant little found family. I just about lost it when the water gun got pulled out. And the drawing style is just sooo gorgeous
This was super cute!! Absolutely loved the gore and the reluctant little found family. I just about lost it when the water gun got pulled out. And the drawing style is just sooo gorgeous
July 8, 2025
Illustration/ Art Style: 3/5
Story Overall: 2.5/5
If I’m being honest, I didn’t care for the art style initially. It slowly grew on me— in a similar way that the story did. There was a disconnect from the cover art that captured my attention and the actual panel art the book consisted off. While I do think the art amongst the pages aligns with the tone of the story, it also contributed to the book feeling more cutesy than I desired.
Meat Eaters has an interesting concept here, but the best part of this book was the ending. It spends too much time in the emotional delivery of the “coming of age” trope that we don’t get to fully connect with the characters or plot overall. I ended the book wishing there was more intensity and depth.
Overall, I don’t have much to say in regard to this graphic novel. It was a quick read that was enjoyable enough to finish, but not one that will stick with me.
Thank you to Oni Press and Netgalley for access to this digital galley.
Story Overall: 2.5/5
If I’m being honest, I didn’t care for the art style initially. It slowly grew on me— in a similar way that the story did. There was a disconnect from the cover art that captured my attention and the actual panel art the book consisted off. While I do think the art amongst the pages aligns with the tone of the story, it also contributed to the book feeling more cutesy than I desired.
Meat Eaters has an interesting concept here, but the best part of this book was the ending. It spends too much time in the emotional delivery of the “coming of age” trope that we don’t get to fully connect with the characters or plot overall. I ended the book wishing there was more intensity and depth.
Overall, I don’t have much to say in regard to this graphic novel. It was a quick read that was enjoyable enough to finish, but not one that will stick with me.
Thank you to Oni Press and Netgalley for access to this digital galley.
May 22, 2025
3.5⭐
Very interesting concept for a graphic novel. The art style is absolutely beautiful and I did love the plot but it felt like it was lacking something. I wish we had more time with the characters, and more time developing the plot. With that said I still loved my time reading this! I really liked all our characters. There are some darker themes in here (if you couldn't tell by the cover) so just be aware of that.
Great for anyone who loves darker graphic novels. It gave me a bit of iZombie vibes. Great read! Will absolutely read more from Meredith McClaren.
Thank you Netgalley & Oni press for the copy!
*all opinions are my own*
Very interesting concept for a graphic novel. The art style is absolutely beautiful and I did love the plot but it felt like it was lacking something. I wish we had more time with the characters, and more time developing the plot. With that said I still loved my time reading this! I really liked all our characters. There are some darker themes in here (if you couldn't tell by the cover) so just be aware of that.
Great for anyone who loves darker graphic novels. It gave me a bit of iZombie vibes. Great read! Will absolutely read more from Meredith McClaren.
Thank you Netgalley & Oni press for the copy!
*all opinions are my own*
September 18, 2025
3.5
Very quick and easy graphic novel but felt like there could've been more to it
Very quick and easy graphic novel but felt like there could've been more to it
May 16, 2025
Special thanks to Netgalley for providing an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review
This was so freaking fun! If anyone if familiar with Teen Wolf on MTV, this is very similar vibes to that. Going into this, I thought it was going to be a gory horror kind of story. And while there was gore and horror, there was actually so much more to it. There was mystery and intrigue and I just couldn't put this book down once I started. Ashley was such a relatable character
I thought this was going to be a standalone story, but there is definitely so much room for this to be a long arcing series, so I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for that.
This was so freaking fun! If anyone if familiar with Teen Wolf on MTV, this is very similar vibes to that. Going into this, I thought it was going to be a gory horror kind of story. And while there was gore and horror, there was actually so much more to it. There was mystery and intrigue and I just couldn't put this book down once I started. Ashley was such a relatable character
I thought this was going to be a standalone story, but there is definitely so much room for this to be a long arcing series, so I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for that.
July 30, 2025
Are you looking for a quick and easy horror manga? Look no further. This story was a little mystery; I wanted to know what had happened to the fmc and what situations she would encounter to understand her situation. Even though it was quite fast-paced, finding two people she could trust and rely on was heartwarming. Having only gotten a glimpse into the supernatural world they inhabit, I’m excited to read the next volume.
Thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press, I received an ARC for an honest review!
Thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press, I received an ARC for an honest review!
June 10, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Oni Press for the ARC.
Now, I might be a little biased cause I like most of the things McClaren puts out.
But this one I LOVED! It's such a good take on the zombie genre, with very human (haha I know) characters with plausible reactions to the messed up things. I cracked when Ashley breaks the fourth wall and the way she handles the whole undead thing is both great and sad. The cast is amazing, with different types of people and the world feels alive even if it's not a lot of characters presented.
It is gory and beautiful and hilarious, I found myself laughing out loud lots of times, only to slip right back into the sinister vibe on the next page.
Now, I might be a little biased cause I like most of the things McClaren puts out.
But this one I LOVED! It's such a good take on the zombie genre, with very human (haha I know) characters with plausible reactions to the messed up things. I cracked when Ashley breaks the fourth wall and the way she handles the whole undead thing is both great and sad. The cast is amazing, with different types of people and the world feels alive even if it's not a lot of characters presented.
It is gory and beautiful and hilarious, I found myself laughing out loud lots of times, only to slip right back into the sinister vibe on the next page.
August 26, 2025
3.5⭐️ that I will round up to 4✨
This is a pretty visceral graphic novel. With a relatable main character who wakes up not quite the same, this story explores death, loneliness, loss of self, moving on, and finding friendship in unlikely people. I particularly liked how the author didn’t shy away from gore or the reality of a world where people are prey just as much as any other animal. The friendship dynamic in here was refreshing and balanced out a pretty dark narrative. I would recommend for fans of comics and horror.
This is a pretty visceral graphic novel. With a relatable main character who wakes up not quite the same, this story explores death, loneliness, loss of self, moving on, and finding friendship in unlikely people. I particularly liked how the author didn’t shy away from gore or the reality of a world where people are prey just as much as any other animal. The friendship dynamic in here was refreshing and balanced out a pretty dark narrative. I would recommend for fans of comics and horror.
June 8, 2025
I had this review pending for a while, but better late than never right?????? Honestly, the ending really left me thinking... could there be a sequel? Because it definitely has potential. Especially with that open ending and the group that came together, I think they truly deserve more development. At first, I wasn’t fully convinced, tbh. It all felt a bit... odd (but that's part of the plot and the summary so...).But little by little, it started to make sense why specially the werewolf characters are the way they are.
Now, let’s talk about the main character, Ashley, wow those “numb” moments really hit hard. I think those were my favorite parts, actually. On the other hand, some of the action scenes felt a bit... rushed. They were full of detail, sure, but there was something a bit too “plot armor" (I had to look at this expressionbecause I was not sure how to say in English lol) about them that took away from the impact a little. Buuuut, in general it was interesting.
Now, let’s talk about the main character, Ashley, wow those “numb” moments really hit hard. I think those were my favorite parts, actually. On the other hand, some of the action scenes felt a bit... rushed. They were full of detail, sure, but there was something a bit too “plot armor" (I had to look at this expressionbecause I was not sure how to say in English lol) about them that took away from the impact a little. Buuuut, in general it was interesting.
May 10, 2025
The graphic cover made my mouth water straight away.
On the menu (apart from meat): zombies, werewolves, vampires and horrible creatures!
I really liked the Tokyo ghoul-style start.
I had trouble with the style of the faces at first, but you soon get used to it. The faces are very expressive.
It's punchy, funny and lively (no pun intended). The humour is dark and modern. Ashley is very relatable. What's more, she manages to be both badass and cowardly. The found family is super adorable (and bloody). I loved watching them fight (chaotically and catastrophically) for each other. It still works for me.
There are hyper graphic moments that surprise as much as the main character, it's super effective (and disturbing).
The subtext of mental health and trying to find one's place is well handled.
The origin of his death is well disseminated throughout the story (and the finale is a thing of beauty).
I can't wait to read more of their adventures!
Ps: It took me a long time to understand her phone case.
On the menu (apart from meat): zombies, werewolves, vampires and horrible creatures!
I really liked the Tokyo ghoul-style start.
I had trouble with the style of the faces at first, but you soon get used to it. The faces are very expressive.
It's punchy, funny and lively (no pun intended). The humour is dark and modern. Ashley is very relatable. What's more, she manages to be both badass and cowardly. The found family is super adorable (and bloody). I loved watching them fight (chaotically and catastrophically) for each other. It still works for me.
There are hyper graphic moments that surprise as much as the main character, it's super effective (and disturbing).
The subtext of mental health and trying to find one's place is well handled.
The origin of his death is well disseminated throughout the story (and the finale is a thing of beauty).
I can't wait to read more of their adventures!
Ps: It took me a long time to understand her phone case.
April 17, 2025
This was an amazing comic book.
The story follows Ashley—how she becomes a ghoul, discovers that wolves and vampires are real, and tries to adapt to everything changing around her. But beneath the monsters and the chaos, this is really a story about the friends we find in unlikely places, and the ways people show up for each other even when the world is falling apart.
On a deeper level, Meat Eaters is about what happens to us after trauma—how we heal, how we break, and how we cope (or don’t). It’s about surviving, even when you’re not sure you want to. And in a world filled with ghouls, vampires, and werewolves, it’s the humans who end up being the real monsters. (Honestly? Not surprising.)
I especially loved how Ashley, after everything she’s been through, becomes the most indestructible and feared creature—not by losing herself, but by fighting through the worst parts of herself: the anxiety, the depression, the crushing grief.
McClaren handles trauma with such honesty, but also with a great sense of humor that never feels out of place. Because survival isn’t clean—after everything, somehow, life keeps handing us these strange little moments of joy and ridiculousness. It’s messy, and ridiculous, and painful, and sometimes absurdly funny—and that’s what makes it real.
The story follows Ashley—how she becomes a ghoul, discovers that wolves and vampires are real, and tries to adapt to everything changing around her. But beneath the monsters and the chaos, this is really a story about the friends we find in unlikely places, and the ways people show up for each other even when the world is falling apart.
On a deeper level, Meat Eaters is about what happens to us after trauma—how we heal, how we break, and how we cope (or don’t). It’s about surviving, even when you’re not sure you want to. And in a world filled with ghouls, vampires, and werewolves, it’s the humans who end up being the real monsters. (Honestly? Not surprising.)
I especially loved how Ashley, after everything she’s been through, becomes the most indestructible and feared creature—not by losing herself, but by fighting through the worst parts of herself: the anxiety, the depression, the crushing grief.
McClaren handles trauma with such honesty, but also with a great sense of humor that never feels out of place. Because survival isn’t clean—after everything, somehow, life keeps handing us these strange little moments of joy and ridiculousness. It’s messy, and ridiculous, and painful, and sometimes absurdly funny—and that’s what makes it real.
May 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, the publishers and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love the art style, which is a fun mix of pastel and gore, which I was a little surprised by as that isn't really reflected by the cover. I actually preferred some of the other cover concepts detailed at the end, despite being drawn to this by the cover, as they were more aligned with the rest of the art throughout.
The concept is pretty original, each of the main characters is likeable and funny. The monster (the big bad) is super cool and creepy. The dialogue flows smoothly and there are some great lines in the narrative.
There are some plot points that felt really underdeveloped, such as Motley & Harrison's history with Glenn and what has actually happened to Ashley/what it means to be a ghoul and why. There isn't quite enough resolution for me, as a result.
However I would definitely read more instalments in this series as I think it has a lot of potential to explore.
3 stars
I love the art style, which is a fun mix of pastel and gore, which I was a little surprised by as that isn't really reflected by the cover. I actually preferred some of the other cover concepts detailed at the end, despite being drawn to this by the cover, as they were more aligned with the rest of the art throughout.
The concept is pretty original, each of the main characters is likeable and funny. The monster (the big bad) is super cool and creepy. The dialogue flows smoothly and there are some great lines in the narrative.
There are some plot points that felt really underdeveloped, such as Motley & Harrison's history with Glenn and what has actually happened to Ashley/what it means to be a ghoul and why. There isn't quite enough resolution for me, as a result.
However I would definitely read more instalments in this series as I think it has a lot of potential to explore.
3 stars
July 1, 2025
**A big thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for this ARC copy, this in no way affects my honest, and unbiased review**
When I go looking in the manga section, I tend to lean towards Horror, so was excited for this! The art style itself is very good, very muted colors to represent how the characters are feeling, and very bright when out in the woods enjoying nature. The main character Ashley is relatable, no parent around, just trying to escape a small town, when things happen that makes it near impossible to escape said town.
The plot itself was kind of all over the place, but I felt like it was just how scatter-brained Ashley was being about her issues that caused it to be that way.
The only issues I had with the story was that she went to look for Bess and get an undead 101, but when the shit really hit the fan, she never went back, or asked for help from the "real adults". I get that she was trying to hide like how bad she was or how bad her hungry was making her, but Bess and the others know way more than her and she just didn't use that resource.
When I go looking in the manga section, I tend to lean towards Horror, so was excited for this! The art style itself is very good, very muted colors to represent how the characters are feeling, and very bright when out in the woods enjoying nature. The main character Ashley is relatable, no parent around, just trying to escape a small town, when things happen that makes it near impossible to escape said town.
The plot itself was kind of all over the place, but I felt like it was just how scatter-brained Ashley was being about her issues that caused it to be that way.
The only issues I had with the story was that she went to look for Bess and get an undead 101, but when the shit really hit the fan, she never went back, or asked for help from the "real adults". I get that she was trying to hide like how bad she was or how bad her hungry was making her, but Bess and the others know way more than her and she just didn't use that resource.
May 18, 2025
*3.5*
a super cute YA supernatural graphic novel with vampires, werewolves and ghouls. I really enjoyed the found family within this, I love the idea of a group of young people who are all supernatural in some way and have no idea what’s going on just vibing it out together.
I thought the main character was super relatable, girly had her life turned upside down and was doing her best to figure it out whilst trying to not panic to death. I do wish it had more background / plot regarding the actual abilities, but I’m hoping this will develop as the story progresses.
a super cute YA supernatural graphic novel with vampires, werewolves and ghouls. I really enjoyed the found family within this, I love the idea of a group of young people who are all supernatural in some way and have no idea what’s going on just vibing it out together.
I thought the main character was super relatable, girly had her life turned upside down and was doing her best to figure it out whilst trying to not panic to death. I do wish it had more background / plot regarding the actual abilities, but I’m hoping this will develop as the story progresses.
May 28, 2025
**NetGalley ARC** (thank you!)
Oni Press really does come out with some of my favorite stories. I really enjoyed this unique take on a monster that doesn't get as much spotlight in mainstream media - vampires, werewolves, witches, and zombies - yes - but when do you ever get to read a story about ghouls? I kind of wish that how Ashley became a ghoul was a little more direct instead of alluded to (which was kind of dark, I might have even made it a little darker in my head). All in all, a solid story.
Oni Press really does come out with some of my favorite stories. I really enjoyed this unique take on a monster that doesn't get as much spotlight in mainstream media - vampires, werewolves, witches, and zombies - yes - but when do you ever get to read a story about ghouls? I kind of wish that how Ashley became a ghoul was a little more direct instead of alluded to (which was kind of dark, I might have even made it a little darker in my head). All in all, a solid story.
September 15, 2025
I mostly lost track of meredith mcclaren after ‘super fun sexy times’ and I am so glad I stumbled upon this gem. perfect for my current mood, which is HORROR HORROR HORROR, just in time for spooky season. her signature art style works so damn well for this kind of subject matter, and I absolutely loved the characters/found family vibes and this supernatural world. also, how fucked up is ashley’s origin story, and how fucking badass does she end up being as a full fledged ghoul? the answer to both is ENDLESSLY.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2025
I have been a fan of Meredith McClaren’s art since she worked with Kelly Thompson on Heart in a Box so I was very excited when NetGalley and Oni Press gave me the opportunity to read an ARC, and it did not disappoint! I already have a pre-order in for a physical copy.
19 year old loner Ashley wakes up dead, which was not part of her plan to get free of the small town that she lives in. She soon finds herself navigating a hidden underworld of supernatural beings, learning new rules for survival and making friends along the way.
The book is full of heart (sometimes literally!) with friendships blossoming, and genuinely funny and touching moments throughout the book. This provides a nice balance to the main thrust of the story, which is about the evils in the world, trauma, and the struggle of moving on from it.
Meredith McClaren’s art and colour style is beautiful. It is quirky and cute, and if it wasn’t for the blood and gore would make for delightful children’s book illustrations. Please check your trigger warnings, while I didn’t find anything in the book harrowing, and everything was well-handled with nothing gratuitous, there is death, absent parents, blood and gore, spiders (sort of!) and (off page) sexual assault
19 year old loner Ashley wakes up dead, which was not part of her plan to get free of the small town that she lives in. She soon finds herself navigating a hidden underworld of supernatural beings, learning new rules for survival and making friends along the way.
The book is full of heart (sometimes literally!) with friendships blossoming, and genuinely funny and touching moments throughout the book. This provides a nice balance to the main thrust of the story, which is about the evils in the world, trauma, and the struggle of moving on from it.
Meredith McClaren’s art and colour style is beautiful. It is quirky and cute, and if it wasn’t for the blood and gore would make for delightful children’s book illustrations. Please check your trigger warnings, while I didn’t find anything in the book harrowing, and everything was well-handled with nothing gratuitous, there is death, absent parents, blood and gore, spiders (sort of!) and (off page) sexual assault
October 25, 2025
~3.5~ cute, mildly creepy graphic novel featuring werewolves and ghoul. i like McClaren's character design and stylistic choices, like portraying action by way of illustrating hair and clothing affected by momentum, and using angled shots to augment mood in panels. the very emotive faces, occasionally reminiscent of manga, are endearing and easily interpreted. while not spectacular, the story is serviceable and provides a fun take on the found family trope.
May 20, 2025
I received this ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
This was my first comic read and I absolutely adored this!!!
The art style, characters development, and storyline was phenomenal. Meat Eaters is a heart warming story that will pull at your heartstrings.
The cover made me believe that the story was going to be filled with horror but instead I found myself giggling as I read certain parts in the story. Kind of misleading in a way but I still enjoyed this read nonetheless.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to reading this early copy of Meat Eaters!
This was my first comic read and I absolutely adored this!!!
The art style, characters development, and storyline was phenomenal. Meat Eaters is a heart warming story that will pull at your heartstrings.
The cover made me believe that the story was going to be filled with horror but instead I found myself giggling as I read certain parts in the story. Kind of misleading in a way but I still enjoyed this read nonetheless.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to reading this early copy of Meat Eaters!
May 6, 2025
"what else can you do except keep going"
if I had a nickel for every time I read a comic where the cover was the best part, I'd have far too many nickels what is happening??? The art style inside was insultingly bad, why are we saying "merp" in the year 2025, and why was this so boring and explained nothing
if I had a nickel for every time I read a comic where the cover was the best part, I'd have far too many nickels what is happening??? The art style inside was insultingly bad, why are we saying "merp" in the year 2025, and why was this so boring and explained nothing
May 13, 2025
FIVE FKING STARS. This book was SO GOOD. I love a monster story, and Meat Eaters totally delivers. Ashley is thrown into the deep end of her new undead life, and the mystery surrounding how and why she became undead adds such an intriguing layer to the story. Watching her navigate her new dietary preferences, life changes, and relationships, especially with her found family, was honestly a blast. I am desperate for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for the ARC.
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for the ARC.
Release Date: May 27, 2025
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